PORT ST. LUCIE – A year ago, Mike Jacobs won the award given to the top Met minor leaguer. Not much good has happened since.

Jacobs played in only 27 games last year, due to cyst in his shoulder that required season-ending surgery. But the 24-year-old catcher is healthy now and trying to resume his career.

“I’m feeling good and feeling strong,” he said.

Jacobs, whose pretty lefty stroke allowed him to hit .329 with 17 homers and 81 RBIs in Double-A Binghamton in 2003 (he hit .177 in his 27 games at Triple-A Norfolk last year), is likely slated for Norfolk again. But if he impresses there, the Mets’ catching situation – Mike Piazza is a free agent after the season and Justin Huber has been traded – could line him up as a possible successor.

“If [starting at catcher is] the path that comes across, then I’ll be ready for the challenge. I’ll be ready to step up,” said Jacobs, who’s also spent some time at first base. “But right now, I’m just focused on getting a good year under my belt and we’ll see what happens after that.”

* The Mets, whose bullpen looms as their biggest question mark at this point, are monitoring the reliever market. One arm they’ve asked about is Tampa RHP Danys Baez, who went 4-4 with a 3.57 ERA and 30 saves in 33 opportunities last season. The Mets also have interest in Detroit RHP Ugueth Urbina, though the two clubs have not had significant discussions.

* Rain washed out most of the Mets’ on-field workout yesterday, as the team was limited primarily to bullpen side sessions and batting cage work.

“I don’t really think it [sets us back],” Willie Randolph said. “I think the pitchers and catchers have been working their butts off for seven-eight days here, and sometimes a little [rest] is good.

“I’d rather have it happen now than leading into a game. It could be a blessing in disguise. Everyone got their work in and you never like to not be on the field to do your work, but I don’t think it’s going to hurt us at all.”

* David Wright and Carlos Beltran had their first private workout with Beltran’s trainer at Gold’s Gym on Thursday … The Red Sox have invited members of the 2004 world championship team who are no longer with the club to join them in visiting the White House on Wednesday. Pedro Martinez was flattered by the invite but indicated he doesn’t want to miss the day’s work.